New Zealand Just Changed Its Visa Policies for Indian Graduates

New Zealand has recently made significant changes to its student visa policies. The changes have been deemed effective since the 23rd of June, 2025. The country, which has hosted over 20000 Indian students in the most recent academic year, has now eliminated what was formerly a bureaucratic maze that held several Indian degree-holders back from achieving their dream of working or studying in New Zealand.

Here is What Has Changed

For decades, Indian professionals and students aspiring to gain entry into the country for academic or work purposes had to go through a time-consuming and complex process called the International Qualification Assessment (IQA). At the core of such a process is a requirement to ensure that all foreign degrees be successfully mapped onto New Zealand's broader academic framework. Although systematic, the IQA, by nature, is a costly and lengthy procedure that often delays immigration applications by several months. Now, with India having joined the prestigious List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment (LQEA), Indian degree holders are free from the woes of a sophisticated and exhaustive process. Since the 23rd of June, the IQA has been completely removed, making India as part of eight other nations including France, Germany, Singapore, and South Korea enjoying such an exemption.

You Can Now Fast-Track Your Way To Success

The implications of this change well beyond its immediate bureaucratic advantages and administrative convenience. Indian graduates can now also apply directly for the Skilled Migrant Category, Green List roles and Accredited Employer Work Visa schemes. These open up pathways for aspiring students to work their way up to gain residency and long-term employment and settlement opportunities in the country.

There are also statistics worth considering. India consistently ranks among New Zealand's top four international student markets, with over 22,000 enrolments in recent years. This policy change can be a game changer for a country also attracting top talent despite a lengthy entry procedure. Easier enrolment means more top-tier talent for the country, particularly in high-demand fields like STEM and business.

A Change That Comes Just in Time

New Zealand's timing couldn't be better. As conventional study abroad destinations like Australia, Canada and the UK have seen a decline in international student enrolment owing to their own immigration challenges and policy uncertainties, New Zealand has made strategic changes in the nick of time. is positioning itself as an attractive alternative. The country has already sweetened the deal with initiatives like the New Zealand Excellence Awards 2025 with an offer of up to NZ$20,000 per student as well as attractive post-study work rights allowing graduates to remain in the country for up to three years.

An Indo-Kiwi Partnership We All Look Forward To

This policy shift could mark the beginning of a significant partnership built on mutual respect between India and New Zealand. The door is now wide open and the welcome mat is out.

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